Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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Fire Damage Restoration Tips  


In light of the recent, destructive San Diego fires, we thought we’d highlight some of the effects of fire and smoke damage within the home. Fire – even in small amounts– can be extremely dangerous even if the after effects are not immediately visible. There are a few things that need to be known before entering the home after you have had a fire. Fire damage restoration is almost always necessary.

First, consult a fire marshal and ensure that it is safe to re-enter the home after fire damage. Even though you may want to inspect and see what survived the fire, you need to be safe for obvious reasons. Fire can cause the home to be extremely unstable and dangerous.

Immediately following the fire, call a smoke and fire damage restoration specialist to help assess the damage in the home and begin the clean up process.  A fire damage restoration professional can save a lot of money, time and keep your family safe when dealing with fire damage, but here are some things you can do before they arrive to help speed up the process a bit more.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (704) 393-7890

What To Do After A Fire

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
  • Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
  • Change HVAC filter.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

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